Begin your journey by visiting the Alappuzha Backwaters, one of the most beautiful and tranquil destinations in South India. Experience a serene boat ride, witness the simple life of the locals living on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, and indulge in some fresh seafood delicacies.
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is an annual event that draws a massive crowd and is one of the highlights of Kerala. Visit the Nehru Trophy Finishing Point, which serves as the location for the thrilling boat race, to witness the beautiful snake boats and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Relax and unwind at the stunning Marari Beach, famed for its white sandy beaches, swaying coconut palms, and azure waters. Take a relaxing stroll on the beach, soak up the sun, and admire the picturesque sunset before retiring for the day.
Begin your day by taking a leisurely stroll along the Fort Kochi Beach, which is known for its Chinese fishing nets, colonial architecture, and vibrant art galleries. Breathe in the salty air, watch fishermen at work, and catch glimpses of the iconic St. Francis Church and Vasco Da Gama Square.
Visit the St. Francis Church, which was built in 1503 by the Portuguese and is one of the oldest European churches in India. The church features beautiful stained glass windows and an ancient cemetery that has the remains of several European traders, including Vasco Da Gama.
Explore the Dutch Palace, which is also known as the Mattancherry Palace. This elegant palace features a central courtyard with murals depicting the stories of the Mahabharatha, and an impressive collection of old coins, palanquins, and weapons.
End the day by visiting the Cherai Beach, which is located on the outskirts of Kochi and is renowned for its spectacular sunsets, calm waters, and scenic beauty. Take a dip in the sea, go for a walk, or simply relax and enjoy the views.
Visit the Mattancherry Synagogue, which is one of the oldest synagogues in the world and is famous for its stunning Belgian glass chandeliers and old handicrafts. The synagogue is also propped up with ancient scrolls of the Old Testament.
Head to the Chinese Fishing Nets, which are an iconic and unique attraction in Kochi. Watch as fishermen use these ancient nets, which were introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan, China during the 14th century, to fish in the sea and learn some tricks from the fishermen themselves.
Visit the Museum of Kerala History, which offers an immersive experience into the history, culture, and art of Kerala. Exhibits include hands-on traditional crafts, artifacts from the Neolithic, Chera, and Kingdom of Cochin periods, and an authentic replica of a temple festival.
Spend the evening strolling along the picturesque Marine Drive, Kochi's famous promenade, enjoying the spectacular views of the backwaters, the iconic Rainbow Bridge, and the charming Bolgatty Island.
If you have more time, you can add several attractions to your itinerary, such as the Hill Palace Museum, a guided boat tour around the backwaters, or a visit to the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica. If you have less time, skip the attractions that do not interest you and focus on the ones that do, such as the Fort Kochi Beach, the Dutch Palace/Mattancherry Palace, and the Chinese Fishing Nets. Don't forget to try some of the local cuisine, such as the seafood, the appam with stew, the Kerala style parotta or the spicy biryanis. And, last but not least, carry enough cash, as not all places accept cards and it's always handy to have a small change on hand.